During New York Fashion Week, I visited the Creative Nail Design Studio to chat with the top nail pros about the nails they have created, in collaboration with the participating designers. CND nail technician Shelena Robinson was hard at work, crafting 40 sets of talons for the Baby Phat show. She meticulously layered Gold Chrome (to be released in Fall 2009) over Iced Capuccino. She told me that layering is one of the trends that CND is seeing for fall; it gives the nail a unique look, and is something women can easily do at home.

When I asked how long it takes to complete 40 sets of nails – like at Baby Phat – nail technician Kristina Baune explained that it takes 6-7 hours, especially with layered nail polish because the first color must completely dry before applying the second color. Otherwise, you run the risk of dragging and/or smearing.

Kristina said that the main nail color trend she predicts for fall is gray undertones. “Colors will be dirty and smoky, whether they be beige, pastels or reds. Gray isn’t as hard to wear as black. It wears a little bit softer so it’s not as dramatic when it gets all chipped up. It’s great for every day. It’s a great staple.”

I concluded the interview by putting both technicians on the spot – asking them to name their favorite CND nail colors. Without really hesitating, Shelena put High Blue Dark, NFS and at the top of her list. Kristina’s favorites include Blue Blood (discontinued), Hyde in the Dark and Red Baroness.

Last Fashion Week, the New York Times published The Unsung Heroes of Fashion Week, a fascinating slideshow that chronicles the work of CND artists. With a voiceover by Natasha Singer, the video captures the painstaking process these talented technicians underake to accessorize the nails at Fashion Week’s hottest shows. If you’re a nail phile, you really must take a look!